The Caterham Seven CSR is the ultimate evolution of the Seven design.
The CSR represents the most radical redesign of the car since the introduction of the Seven in its 48-year history.
The CSR is the subject of numerous improvements over previous models, though it still retains the main aesthetics of Caterhams.
Benefiting from the introduction of fully independent rear, and inboard F1-style, front suspension plus major aerodynamic and chassis enhancements, the CSR takes the Seven philosophy to the next level. The CSR combines these sophisticated attributes with an extremely potent 2.3 Litre motor, equipping it with an enormous amount of performance. This has created a car that delivers huge pleasure to both performance orientated or touring drivers alike.
The 260 bhp (190 kW) Cosworth-tuned engine is heavily modified from the stock 2.3 litre Duratec. The cylinder head, block, crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons are upgraded by Cosworth. Cosworth also integrates an advanced dry-sump with an extra internal scavenge pump to distribute the oil. While a dry-sump system requires more oil (more weight), a dry-sump will keep the engine lubricated under hard cornering unlike a wet-sump system. Cosworth also radicalizes the cam shafts and upgrades the exhaust system. this may cause to engine to run a little more “rough” at low RPMs, but it drastically increases performance.
The inlet system is also replaced with an advanced, custom roller-barrel system. This increases airflow at full throttle compared to a butterfly inlet, boosting performance. The engine also has a custom chip designed by Cosworth for a further increase in performance. The 200 bhp (150 kW) model uses the same Duratec block, but is not as heavily modified. The connecting rods and pistons are not upgraded significantly, though it does have the dry-sump system. The cam shafts are slightly radicalized, and the exhaust system is upgraded. The inlet system is enlarged, but not replaced with the roller-barrel system. The computer chip is upgraded, but not to the extent the 260 model is. Generally speaking, the 200 model is upgraded, albeit not as heavily.
The CSR, has a variety of other features which enhance its performance. There are no power brakes or power steering, making the CSR extremely responsive and extremely agile. The clutch also engages extremely high, allowing for quick shifts while racing. In addition, the flywheel is very light. This makes heel-and-toeing extremely quick and easy as the engine revs up very quickly with so little momentum.
General characteristics
Caterham Seven CSR 260
Engine: 2.3 litre Ford Duratec
Max Power (bhp/rpm): 260 @ 7500rpm
Max Torque (lbs ft/rpm): 200 @ 6200rpm
Weight: 575kg
0-60mph: 3.1 seconds
Power-to-weight: 452bhp-per-tonne
Top speed: 155mph
